An unnamed "senior GOP Senate source" told the network Sen. John Ensign, R-Nev., did not officially inform the Republican caucus that he was bringing Angle.

"This is Ensign going rogue in an attempt to rehabilitate his soiled reputation by latching onto someone popular with Nevada voters," the source was quoted by CNN.

Ensign of course is the subject of ongoing ethics and criminal investigations regarding allegations he tried to cover up an extramarital affair, and his stock on Capitol Hill has fallen sharply since he admitted the affair a year ago tomorrow.

Ensign's office did not immediately respond this morning to the report.